So, what if you live in Wisconsin and you want an inground pool? As Wisconsinites, we at Pool Pros know the requirements and challenges of installing inground pools in Wisco.
In this article, we’ll break down seven things that you need to know before you can install a swimming pool in Wisconsin. Let's start by looking at some of the requirements that you'll need to meet.
1. Know your setback requirements
No matter where you live, you’ll need to comply with your local setback requirements, which dictate how near you can build a structure to certain things. For example, there will be rules regarding how far away your pool needs to be from your property line, your home, or a well.
In many areas of Wisconsin (like Howard, De Pere, Suamico), setback rules require that your pool be installed at least 10 feet away from the property line, 20 feet away from wells or septic, and 10 feet away from your home.
Pro tip: Check with your city or county’s development services to find out your area's setback rules.
2. Your pool needs to have a fence or wall around it
If you live in Wisconsin, your swimming pool will also need to have a fence completely blocking it off from unwanted guests or an automatic pool cover with lock. Before you start going through your outdoor living space Pinterest board, there are a few pool fence requirements that you need to know about:
Your fence needs to be at least four feet tall (preferably 5 feet or higher).
3. Your swimming pool might need to have a pool cover
One other thing that you have to think about when you’re building a pool in Wisconsin is that you might need to buy a pool cover. Is this a federal requirement? No, but in Wisconsin, we have special laws regarding pool barriers for safety reasons.
Specifically, you might need a pool cover if you don’t have adequate fencing, but it’s good to be on the safe side even if you do have fencing that complies with the law.
Your children would be much safer with a pool cover in place (and your friends or neighbor’s children would be safer as well). Having a pool cover and a fence might seem like too much, but it’s always good to be cautious.
What kind of pool cover do you need in Wisconsin?
A powered safety cover is preferred for meeting the pool barrier requirements. These typically cost between $14,000 and $24,000, so keep this in mind while planning your pool budget.
4. Your swimming pool will cost a minimum of $35,000
The cost of your inground pool will ultimately depend on the type of swimming pool that you decide to build. You’ll pay the least for a vinyl liner pool ($35,000-$65,000) and the most for a fiberglass swimming pool ($50,000-$100,000 and up). Concrete pool prices average around
$45,000-$95,000 and up.
The price of your pool will also depend on the size, features, and materials that you use (like whether you use plaster, aggregate, or tile and the type of deck that you install).
Check out our articles on swimming pool prices to learn more, or download our free ebook below for an in-depth comparison of the three main inground pool types.
